A married couple found dead in a camper van at the New Forest Cider Festival died from carbon monoxide poisoning, an inquest has revealed. Christopher Coll, 48, and Kayleigh Coll, 38, from Blandford Forum, Dorset, were discovered in their vehicle on October 12 while attending the event in Burley.
At Winchester Coroners Court, area coroner Nicholas Walker gave a preliminary cause of death as carbon monoxide toxicity. The court heard that gas heating was being used in the camper van, and paramedics were unable to revive either of them. The inquest was adjourned until July 22, 2026.
The couple, described as 'soul mates' by their family, leave behind four children: Shyla, Alex, Kaizer, and Emily. Relatives have stepped in to care for them. A GoFundMe page set up to support the children has raised over £30,000 of its £37,000 goal.
In a statement released through police, the family said: 'Their loss has left an immeasurable void in the lives of all who loved them. Our priority now is to protect and support their children.' They appealed for privacy and asked the public to refrain from speculation.
Festival organisers expressed their condolences, stating that the incident occurred in a private vehicle and was not connected to the event. Police have confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances.
